Curious incident

Cycling youngster becomes a horse whisperer during race

Lars Daniels managed to calm the startled horse and defuse the situation.(Bild: Instagram/askerckeliteherrer)

During the first stage of the Arden Challenge in Belgium, a runaway horse suddenly accompanied the main field of cyclists. The young Belgian Lars Daniels reacted with presence of mind on his bike, calmed the animal and thus prevented a potential catastrophe. 

Was it the best horse in the stable? In any case, it made a name for itself shortly before the end of the first stage of the Arden Challenge. While the peloton of the U23 stage race was preparing for the finale, the animal guest took up the "chase". 

The young Belgian talent Lars Daniels recognized the explosive nature of the situation and reacted with lightning speed. He joined the animal on his bike and reached out his hand first. At full speed, he managed to calm the horse, take the reins and bring the startled animal to a halt.

Experience with horses
"If the animal runs into the peloton or is hit by cars behind, the damage would be incalculable," Daniels explained his thoughts at that moment after the race. After calming the horse and handing it over to the care of a police officer, he drove back into the peloton. 

Why was the 23-year-old able to keep a cool head in the situation and react correctly? "I went to a riding school when I was a little boy. Today I still go to competitions and have a few friends who ride," explained the Belgian.

However, the incident ruined his chances of a good placing. At least he still managed to catch up with the main field. "I wasn't fighting for the win anyway," he finally explained with a broad grin.